Roadster – Page 3 – Automobiles Review

MINI To Unveil Roadster On NAIAS

The annual North American International Auto Show is an event of unparalleled importance. Set to be open to the public on the 14^th of January 2012, it will act as the New Year’s Day for the automotive industry. More than 150 companies will showcase their products, innovations and plans for the whole year ahead. 5000 media representatives will provide extensive coverage while around 750 000 members of the public will have the pleasure to moon about amidst lush automotive pieces of art.

And now MINI has announced that on that event, they will try to fascinate the American public with the new MINI Cooper Roadster – a car that relies on a complex chassis technology to stay on the road and yet implements a classic, manually operated soft-top all in the name of pure fun. Although it is the sixth addition to the company’s line up it still bares the MINI hallmark universal features such as large circular headlights, hexagonal radiator grille, side indicator surrounds and vertically stacked rear lights. That of course does not make it a characterless clone of the previous ones. The low-slung silhouette, smooth curves and elegantly extended (separate from the cabin) boot give this urban 2-seater a fresh and playful image.

In terms of dimensions, the basic Roadster model largely mimics its MINI Convertible counterpart with an exterior length of 3,728 mm (wheelbase of 2,467 mm) and a width which stands at 1,683 mm. It is however lower than the Convertible by more than 20 mm thus the fore mentioned low-slung sporty silhouette.

In the US three engine line-ups will be available that go in three different trim levels of the Roadster:

The standard MINI Roadster has a 121 hp, 1.6 litre engine with a fully variable valve control system – based on the VALVETRONIC technology which can be seen in BMW engines.

The MINI Cooper S Roadster houses again the VALVETRONIC 1.6 litre engine but thanks to BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology and direct fuel injection the power is now up to 181 hp. The Cooper S is claimed to be one of the most successful embodiment of power and economy with just 6.0 litres of petrol consumption on a 100km run.

The top of the range MINI John Cooper Works Roadster is powered by a hardcore version of the 1.6 TwinPower Turbo found in the MINI Cooper S. It is a 208 hp hornet that delivers 192 lb-ft (260 Newton metres) of torque at 1,850 rpm. You’ll need no more than 6.3 seconds to reach 100km/h (62 mph) from a standsill while top speed stands at 237 km/h (147 mph). All models come as standard with a six speed manual gearbox that channels the revvy power of the engines to the front wheels. Optionally, the Cooper Roadster and Cooper S Roadster can be ordered with a six speed automatic.

Agile handling and a timely response, emblematic for the MINI brand, come from the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system and the active rear spoiler, which extends automatically when the car reaches 80 km/h (50 mph).

The company is counting on the Roadster range to be a fine compliment to the other five, already successful MINI, MINI Countryman, MINI Clubman, MINI convertible and the MINI Coupé.

Source: MINI

December 16, 2011

Dartz Jo-Mojo

Great news for “go-greeners” today! They come from DARTZ which are very pleased to present the Jo-MOJO – an electric modification of their bulletproof Roadster. Moreover it is also redesigned in their second collaboration with Eduard Gray of Gray Design.

As usual this vehicle is again following the armored tradition set by DARTZ. Although it has an open top, it is based on a pseudo-KAPSULA technology platform akin to its bigger brothers. In addition it has been equipped with patented bullet wheels, custom seating and made with chameleon paint, which will undeniably ensure that it will be as individual as its owner.

The designers of The Jo-Mojo revealed that the super-car has been designed to run through the streets of the Cote d’Azur. Additionally it comes armed with a styling that will light up any party. The advantages of this brilliant vehicle are numerous, but worth of mention are the compact format, low center of gravity and wide front wheel placement. Thank to them the car has fantastic handling characteristics to ensure a smooth ride around curved roads of the Blue Coast.

Dartz Jo Mojo (2012) — Dartz Jo-Mojo (2012)

However the greater advantage of this car lies in its solar batteries. The innovation around the Jo-Mojo is the retractable cover that incorporates a flexible solar cells created by former Soviet space manufacturers, Sidrabe. Moreover you will be amazed when you hear that the cover locks the car and charges it up while it stands under the sun! In addition there is an option of adding extra batteries when you plan to make a longer travel. And don’t worry about the speed because this car has all that it takes for an exciting drive. First, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h just in 9.5 seconds and the top speed is the almost unbelievable for an electric car 125 mph (201 km/h). This is due to the powerful electric engine which delivers the whole 68 kW (80HP) and 120NM (90 lb-ft).

Source: Gray Design

December 8, 2011

BRABUS Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster

Brabus has introduced their tuning program for the stylish SLS AMG Roadster.

The exclusive program comprises an aerodynamic-enhancement kit made from clear-coated carbon fiber, extremely lightweight BRABUS forged wheels with a comfortable sport suspension, engine tuning, a titanium high-performance exhaust system with electronic sound management, and a fully customized interior tailored to the owner’s individual preferences in every last detail.

The body kit includes a new front spoiler attached to the production bumper, two BRABUS carbon-fiber covers for the upper air ducts, modified side skirts, newly designed air vents in the front fenders, BRABUS rear spoiler, side air vents for the rear fascia and BRABUS diffuser with custom-tailored cutouts for the four distinctive tailpipes of the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system.

The striking appearance is completed by a set of huge Brabus forged wheels – Monoblock F “Platinum Edition” cross-spoke in dimensions 9.5J x 20” with 275/30 ZR 20 for the front and 11J x 21” with and 295/25 ZR 21 tires for the rear. The performance tires are supplied by technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA.

For superb handling and stance, the tuner has installed the BRABUS Ride Control smooth-ride suspension that was developed in cooperation with BILSTEIN. IT can lower the ride height up to 40mm. At the push of a button on the center console the driver can choose between damper settings that offer a more comfortable or sportier ride than the production car. The sport suspension and the production suspension can be upgraded with the BRABUS Front Lift System for added convenience. At the push of a button, a hydraulics system raises the front end of the roadster by 50 mm (2.0 inches) in just a couple of seconds.

The most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in the world – AMG’s 6.2 liter is boosted from 571PS (420 kW) to 611PS (448 kW). The result is thanks to a performance kit consisting of newly calibrated engine electronics with special BRABUS mapping for ignition and injection, and the BRABUS high-performance exhaust system.

The interior can be customizer according to the owner’s taste, but it also comes with a speedometer with 400-km/h (250-mph) dial, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, stainless-steel scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo and matte-anodized pedals.

There is no doubt, that Brabus SLS AMG Roadster is simply perfect.

BRABUS Mercedes SLS AMG Roadster Interior

Source: Brabus

November 25, 2011

KICHERER SLS Roadster Supersport GT/R

In matters of individualisation the traditional tuning house Kicherer has taken on the new AMG Mercedes SLS Roadster.

True to the company‘s philosophy to consistently only supplement the AMG‘s basic shape and to retain its basic lines, a new, more sporty version of the Roadster was in essence created. Especially the aerodynamics benefited from the high quality final touch. For this the developers created and mounted a sporty front spoiler, side skirts and a specially hand-made GT front grill. More accents are provided by the small aerodynamic fins that can be mounted on the bonnet and on the wings. All the new add-on components created by KICHERER are, of course, made of high quality carbon.

A further highlight on the sports car is provided by the three-part 20 inch RS-1 lightweight complete wheels.The classic double-spoke design harmonises perfectly with the equally classic sports car silhouette of this retro-sports car.

In addition, a coilover suspension with a socalled „Front Up“ system is mounted on the car. This not only makes driving more sporty but also suits the vehicle perfectly. Moreover, it also makes it possible to raise the front of the car by just pressing on a button, so that obstacles such underground carpark entry ramps and speed bumps can be more easily overcome.

On the rear of the car a stainless steel exhaust with four oval endpipes controlled by dynamic pressure sonorously allows the exhaust fumes out into the open. An integrated valve control gives the driver – depending on the occasion – the opportunity of choosing between a sonorous and discrete tone.

The KICHERER developers have also tightened the performance screw a little and , thanks to the sports air filter exclusive to KICHERER, managed to achieve an actual every day performance of 630 PS – instead of the standard 571 PS. Those who like it even more sporty can order the second performance level. This possesses in addition an exhaust manifold system and a sports catalysor that combined with the modification from the first level guarantee a top performance of 650 PS at 720 Nm torque.

This means the open air SLS sprints to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and reaches a sealed-off top speed of 320 km/h.

Is flying really more exciting???

Source: KICHERER

September 19, 2011

2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini

Renault has announced the new 2011 Wind Roadster Gordini, which is now available to buy for just £12 995.

The car comes with Malta Blue metallic paint with twin white Gordini stripes, plus the usual Gordini badges on the side pillars. The exterior also features white door mirrors, grille trim and cowls, 17” alloy wheels with a polished face and gloss black inserts.

The interior boasts Gordini blue and dark grey leather seats with embossed Gordini logo, numbered Gordini plaque (1-200), satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and blue gearstick surround.

There are also Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, multi-functional TunePoint for USB connections and Thatcham category 1 alarm.

The engine range includes a 1.2 liter TCE with 100PS and a 1.6 liter VVT with 133PS.

Among the options list, you can find a Renaultsport exhaust for £450 (1.6 only), 17” Gordini alloy wheels with polished face and blue inserts, plus a wind deflector for £200.

Check out the price list, below!

2011 Renault Wind Roadster Gordini price list:

Trim level	Engine	OTR Price
Dynamique	1.2 TCe 100	£12,995
	1.6 VVT 133	£13,895
GT Line	1.2 TCe 100	£13,895
	1.6 VVT 133	£14,795
Gordini	1.2 TCe 100	£15,195
	1.6 VVT 133	£16,095

Source: Renault

July 14, 2011

RUF Roadster 3.8 fully revealed

RUF Roadster is the latest creation that comes directly from the garrage of the renowned Porsche aftermarket expert RUF. The newly presented sporty ride draws its inspiration from the 1967 Porsche 911 Targa and sports an integrated roll cage for exclusive levels of on-board safety. (more…)

October 14, 2010

Tesla Roadster 2.5 at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2010

At the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2010, Tesla Motors has pulled-off the cover on its new, refined version all-electric sporty ride Tesla Roadster 2.5. (more…)

July 6, 2010

Tesla delivered its first Rodsters in Canada

Tesla Motors has announced the first deliveries of its astonishing Roadster electric highway-capable high-performance ride to Canada. (more…)

May 31, 2010

Nissan 370Z Roadster tuned by Cobra Technology and Lifestyle

Cobra Technology & Lifestyle now offers huge variety of options for Nissan 370Z convertible and coupe version. The tuning package is named Cobra N+, which is specially developed to bring better look and performance of the sports car.

Cobra N+ body kit consists of front spoiler, rear diffuser, carbon-fiber-look covers for the outside rear view mirrors.
(more…)

April 23, 2010

MINI Roadster Concept

MINI Roadster Concept: fresh ideas for an intense driving experience. MINI evokes new fascination and a wonderful new experience time and again. For each model in the range offers unique opportunities to enjoy supreme driving pleasure and unmistakable style.

Now the MINI Roadster Concept once again sets a new trend for individual mobility borne out by the brand. A purist vehicle concept, elegant design and fascinating, sporting driving characteristics all come together in this unique car to offer the vision of an open two-seater catering for the demands of a modern and self-confident target group.

The new concept car carries over the features typical of MINI to a new segment, the MINI designers thus bringing out yet another attractive facet in the character of the brand. So the world debut of the MINI Roadster Concept at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show will add a new perspective to the future of the MINI brand, presenting yet another great path of development.

The MINI Roadster Concept takes up features typical of the brand and re-interprets these unique strengths in a refreshingly new manner. Individual style, premium quality and a perfect match of driving pleasure and efficiency just right in this day and age determine the character of this compact two-seater. And through its design alone, the MINI Roadster Concept reflects the focus on maximum driving pleasure with nothing but the sky above.

The MINI Roadster Concept is clearly recognisable at very first sight as a MINI. At the same time, with its two seats, a tight-fitting soft roof and innovative rear-end design, the new model opens up new perspectives both in the context of the brand and in the segment of compact roadsters.

BMW EfficientDynamics

September 15, 2009

Mazda MX-5 Superlight version Show car to premiere at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show

A superlight show car capturing the pure essence of the world’s most popular roadster, the Mazda MX-5, will see its world premiere at the 63rd Frankfurt Motor Show, which will be held from 15 through 27 September 2009.

After 20 years of global success, Mazda MX-5 is the best-selling two-seat sports car in the world. At Frankfurt, Mazda will present a new take on its affordable roadster in an all-new show car, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight version, designed at Mazda’s studio in Oberursel, Germany. (more…)

August 5, 2009

Tesla Roadster 2

Tesla engineers have been hard at work on the first major product upgrade since they began production in 2008. Roadster 2 embodies Tesla’s spirit of continuous improvement and offers:

(more…)

July 22, 2009

Tag: Roadster